A massive social media campaign has brought hope to an 11-month-old baby battling a rare genetic disorder. The “Save Punarnika” movement went viral across Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube after a content creator revealed that the child urgently needed a life-saving injection worth ₹16 crore. Within days, people across Telugu states united, donated generously, and helped the family reach the target amount.
Punarnika was born on May 12, 2025, to Suresh Kumar and Pushpavathi from Veldurthi village in Kurnool district. At birth, she weighed 3.5 kg and appeared healthy. However, even after six months, she could not roll over or move her body properly. Concerned parents consulted doctors, who referred them to Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Hyderabad. There, doctors diagnosed her with Type-1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).
What Is Type-1 SMA?
SMA is a rare genetic disorder that damages motor neurons in the spinal cord. As a result, muscles weaken progressively because they do not receive proper signals from the brain. Type-1 is the most severe form and usually appears in infants under six months. Without timely treatment, it can become life-threatening.
The recommended treatment is a gene therapy injection called Zolgensma, manufactured by Novartis. It ranks among the most expensive medicines in the world, costing between ₹16 and ₹18 crore.
Social Media Turns Into Lifeline
For Suresh Kumar, who runs a small shop in his village, arranging such a massive sum seemed impossible. However, once the campaign gained traction, donations poured in from students, employees, and families. Children even broke open their piggy banks to contribute. Actor Manchu Manoj also extended support, amplifying the campaign further.
Youngsters organised rallies in several districts, while influencers continuously shared updates online. Consequently, the campaign transformed into a humanitarian movement. Rupee by rupee, donors achieved what once looked unattainable.
Funding Goal Achieved, Donations Stopped
After successfully raising ₹16 crore, Punarnika’s father released a video confirming that the required amount had been collected. He requested people to stop further donations and expressed gratitude to every contributor. He also announced that any surplus funds would support other children facing critical health conditions and clarified that he would not use the extra money for personal purposes.
According to the family, partial assistance also came from the government. The baby currently remains under medical supervision, and treatment updates are expected within a few days.
Ultimately, the Save Punarnika campaign stands as a powerful reminder that compassion still thrives. In a matter of days, collective goodwill gave a fragile life a second chance.
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